TV & SAT TV

Choosing the right antenna is a key issue in any TV system. When looking for a suitable model, the following factors should be taken into account – gain, directivity, mounting location, built-in signal amplifier and the band for which the antenna is tuned.

One of the criteria for classification of TV systems in hotels is the programming to be distributed. The simplest systems may provide only free-to-air terrestrial TV broadcasts, whereas more advanced solutions will include satellite channels, also some premium ones (pay-TV). The content required by the owner/investor will depend on the categories of prospective hotel guests (foreign and thematic channels etc).

Measurement of DVB-T2 terrestrial television signals and DVB-S/S2 satellite television signals. The technique of measuring DVB-T2 terrestrial digital TV signals is not very different from DVB-T signal measurement.

Fiber optic systems play an increasingly important role in the transmission of TV/SAT signals. They guarantee low signal loss and very high immunity to interference. DIPOL offers new TERRA solution for SMATV systems based on optical fibers.

This article presents the actual measurement results and how to configure the channel amplifier in the implementation of a SMATV system of DVB-T2 terrestrial television for about 70 terminal outlets.

Satellite dishes are one of many important components of an antenna system. This type of antenna provides reception of the signal that is transmitted by telecommunications satellites providing access to hundreds of foreign programs that are broadcast from even the most remote places in the world.

Every DVB-T2 digital terrestrial TV system begins with the antenna. Proper choice is critical to the success of the entire project.

The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) is a REGULATION (EU) No 305/2011 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 9 March 2011 laying down harmonized conditions for the marketing of construction products and repealing Council Directive 89/106/EEC (Construction Product Directive). The regulation classifies construction products and lays down the rules regarding testing of said products and is aimed at ensuring reliable information on construction products in terms of their performance characteristics on the EU markets.

Headends distributing satellite programs converted to digital DVB-T COFDM format are still the most popular solution used in many hotels. Satellite channels can be an addition to the terrestrial television programs or be the only part of the package offered.

Home LAN / WLAN system can be used not only for connecting desktops and laptops to the Internet but also for providing access to shared memory (NAS), printers, scanners as well as may be the source of content displayed on TV screens and the basis of home CCTV monitoring.

Signal HD converters of HDMI (or VGA) to IP interface allow users to transmit and distribute high-resolution (HD) signals via computer IP networks to HD-enabled televisions/monitors (with HDMI or VGA inputs). They also enable users to control the source devices from the remote locations of the televisions/monitors through the original remote controls or, where applicable, through USB devices (mouse and/or keyboard – e.g. in the case of STBs and NVRs).

The conversion of baseband audio-video (A/V) signals to radio frequency (RF) channel is called modulation. The process allows for the distribution of signals coming from all kinds of sources, such as computers, DVD and Blu-ray players, security cameras etc. through antenna systems.

Signal MRP multiswitches with passive DVB-T/DAB/FM path have been designed for small/medium size SAT installations built in star topology. One device or a group of such multiswitches feeds the subscriber outlets from individual outputs of the multiswitch(es). This topology is typical for applications in single-family homes and in buildings inhabited by several or so families.

The article presents proposals to build examination stands in technical/vocational schools. Additionally, it lists other articles that can help understand some practical issues connected with electronics.

The article introduces concepts of implementing distribution systems of terrestrial and satellite radio and TV signals in multifamily buildings. Any subscriber is able to receive terrestrial FM/DAB/TV signals broadcast in the area, and satellite radio/TV signals from two satellite positions. All the signals come from one master antenna set... (in translation)

Legacy multiswitches operate in the 950 to 2150 MHz range and together with a Quatro LNB allow for distribution of DVB-S/S2 satellite programming, DVB-T terrestrial broadcasts, analog FM/ radio broadcasts from one master antenna set to many DVB-S/S2 receivers, TVs, stereos. The job of a multiswitch is to enable any satellite receiver in the system to tune to any satellite channel (polarization/band pair) across the whole range of satellite reception. For this purpose, such a receiver sends via its input and coaxial cable suitable commands (14/18 V supply voltage, 0/22 kHz switching tone, and, in the case of 9-input multiswitches, DiSEqC control signal). The result of the commands is the selection of the adequate input of the multiswitch connected to its output (connected with the input of the receiver).

Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is one of digital radio technologies for broadcasting radio stations, used mainly in Europe. As in the case of digital terrestrial DVB-T that replaced over the years analog TV broadcasting, digital radio offers a range of benefits both for broadcasters and listeners.

Connectors play a very important role in any transmission line. Their construction and quality have direct influence on connection stability, attenuation, return loss, mechanical strength. DIPOL offers a new generation of connectors - compression connectors meeting the most stringent requirements and standards.

HDMI is now the most commonly used connector in sources of different kinds of multimedia content. In situations where there is a need to send an HDMI signal at a distance greater than 30 meters (maximum length of HDMI cables), or in a place where such a cable cannot be installed, it is reasonable to use the appropriate media converter that allows the transmission of the signal from the HDMI source using other type of transmission cable, more suitable for that application.

Under EU rules, by 2020 each citizen of the European Union is to have the technical ability to access the Internet with download speed at least 20 Mbps. In this respect, some EU countries introduced regulations aimed at accelerating this process. In some of them, each newly built residential building should be equipped with fiber-optic infrastructure. This type of cabling can be used not only in the implementation of access to high-speed Internet, but also proves to be an excellent medium for other services, including distribution of TV/SAT programming. Multiswitch systems providing access to digital terrestrial television (DVB-T) and satellite TV platforms are the perfect complement or an alternative to cable TV networks in multifamily buildings. The use of fiber optic solutions for such SMATV systems can have both technical and economical advantages.

TERRA is one of the largest manufacturers of specialized equipment for the reception and distribution of satellite TV signals (DVB-S/S2), terrestrial broadcasts (DVB-T), and cable television (DVB-C) in Europe. The story goes back to the end of 1980, when the company supplied the Russian and Lithuanian markets with analog satellite receivers and LNBs.

This article concisely presents the process of designing and implementing a multiswitch system in one of multifamily buildings in Krakow - from specification of requirements for the project to the completion and operation of the system.

TERRA products dedicated for shared antenna systems are first-class equipment with a four-year warranty. SMATV distribution networks based on these devices ensure reliable operation for a long time.

The article presents proposals for the comprehensive implementation of telecommunications systems in multi-family buildings, in accordance with the Regulation of the Ministry of Transport, Construction and Maritime Economy on the technical conditions to be met by buildings and their location of 06.11.2012.

Professional approach to the problem of amplification of television signals in modern DVB-T and SMATV systems is the use of channel amplifiers, which allows for precise gain control and noise reduction.

Currently in Europe there is a change in the method of broadcasting digital terrestrial television, by replacing the existing DVB-T system with a more effective DVB-T2 standard. Although in most cases the reception of DVB-T2 does not require replacement of the antenna array used to date for DVB-T, the practice shows that in many situations the modernization of the array is necessary. This is mainly connected with new locations and/or lower power of some DVB-T2 transmitters. In such cases, the existing or new antenna systems have to be prepared for the new reception conditions.

Our intention in creating this document was to inform prospective investors, project offices and installation companies on the issues connected with (S)MATV / shared antenna systems, in particular, their modernization and adaptation to the requirements of DVB-T.

Digital terrestrial television (DVB-T/T2) covers the whole Europe. These several examples of DVB-T antenna systems will help anyone who wants to build a new antenna system or upgrade the existing one. The antenna installations presented below are a set of options that can be selected depending on the power of the transmitter and its distance to the reception point, as well as specific requirements of the user(s).

Increasing availability of multimedia content presses demand for high quality transmission between the sources (transmitters) and players (receivers) of the content. Extensive multimedia systems in hotels, restaurants, clubs etc. require appropriate equipment to create suitable networks providing the content to multiple flat screens.

An article on the measurements of signals in DVB-T systems. It explains the meaning of the measured values for the quality of reception. The part concerning the amplification of the signals allows for better choice of RF amplifiers, especially in the transitional period (from analog to digital TV).

Below we present examples of application diagrams of terrestrial, satellite, IP, CCTV, and GSM antenna systems. In the first part, we show systems for single-family homes and SOHO applications, in the second part - solutions for multi-family houses and other large buildings.

Here's an example of installation diagram in apartment building. The system provides each outlet with all available terrestrial broadcasts and satellite channels from one satellite (chosen at the stage of initial planning, usually by the administrator of the building). The system is based on TERRA multiswitches of MSV series and satellite taps with different tap attenuation. The biggest advantage of such a system is its flexibility. Thanks to the wide range of TERRA multiswitches, the designer has virtually limitless possibilities of creating the network and choosing the right equipment. The system is expandable and allows to implement new functions in the future.

Here's an example of installation diagram in large apartment building. The system provides each outlet with all available terrestrial broadcasts and satellite channels from two satellites (e.g. Astra 19.2E and HotBird 13E). The system is based on TERRA multiswitches of MSV series and satellite taps with different tap attenuation. The biggest advantage of such a system is flexibility. Thanks to the wide range of TERRA multiswitches, the designer has virtually limitless possibilities of creating the network and choosing the right equipment. The system is expandable and allows to implement new functions in the future.

Here's an example of installation diagram in apartment building. The system provides each outlet with all available terrestrial broadcasts and satellite channels from one satellite (chosen at the stage of initial planning, usually by the administrator of the building). The system is based on radial TERRA multiswitches of MSR series. Thanks to the wide range of TERRA multiswitches, the designer has virtually limitless possibilities of creating the network and choosing the right equipment. The systems are expandable and allow to implement new functions in the future, e.g. CCTV monitoring.

Basic scheme of GSM antenna system suitable for homes and businesses, allowing normal use of mobile phones in situations where the signal inside a building is too low for reliable communication.

Signals from cameras in TV/SAT systems. The conversion of A/V signals into high-frequency RF signals, meaning the introduction of signals from all kinds of signal sources, such as computers, players or surveillance cameras, into a terrestrial TV system, is an operation that requires the use of a so-called modulator. Such device has one or multiple A/V inputs (HDMI) and an RF output (commonly known as the "antenna output), and it allows you to watch the video and listen to the sound on the selected channel , on all TVs connected to the system. For the receiver, the program added to the system is just another terrestrial television channel.

Two Quatro LNBs (A98257) are connected with R70808 multiswitch (via eight coaxial cables TRISET-113 E1015). In the diagram below, the inputs of the multiswitch connected with the second LNB (for a second satellite) are not visible (they are physically placed in the second row, behind the first). The use of a twin-tuner PVR receivers requires installing two TRISET-113 E1015 cables from the multiswitch to the R694140 outlets. This will enable simultaneous viewing of one program and recording of another. The diagram shows two "single" receivers and one twin-tuner receiver.

Diagram of basic antenna installation in a single-family house, capable of receiving terrestrial and satellite channels. The system enables the residents to receive any available terrestrial TV and FM broadcasts, and one chosen (at a moment) satellite TV channel - through every SAT/TV outlet in the home. The satellite channel can be changed from any place in the home where a remote control extender has been installed. The FM/TV antennas, diplexer and satellite dish with LNBs are mounted on the roof; the 2-way splitter, RF amplifier, SAT switch and TV/SAT combiner - in the attic. The satellite receiver can be installed e.g. in the living room. Thanks to the RF modulator cooperating with the receiver, the chosen SAT channel is available in other rooms. An additional coaxial cable from the place with the SAT receiver to the attic will provide possibility of extension in the future (second receiver, PVR, CCTV etc).

This article aims to explain the principles of designing satellite master antenna systems, with the use of very valuable and free SatNet4.2 software from Terra company. SatNet4.2is a simple to use program with a great interface and versatility. It is possible to design a network with a virtually unlimited number of outlets. Simulation results correspond very well with the real effects.

Locations and parameters of terrestrial digital and analog TV transmitters in Poland (information suitable for Polish-speaking users only, available when you choose the Polish version of the website)